The Chinese Ambassador to Uganda H. E. Zhao Yali handed over a hand tractor, 10 boxes of hoes, a Motorcycle, two sewing machines, two bicycles and a 40 inch digital television set to the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Edward Katumba Wamala, at the Rehabilitation Center.

Amb Zhao was visiting the UPDF unit for the disabled soldiers and was impressed with the high level of productivity and creativity by the soldiers despite their disability status.

He was entertained by the soldiers in a volleyball match, and inspected their carpentry workshop and farms.

The Ambassador appreciated the efforts the UPDF is making in rehabilitating its soldiers who get disabled in combat and said his country would offer more support to the Chieftaincy of Rehabilitation Center.

He also pledged his country’s support to Uganda in expanding Entebbe International Airport and building a Hospital in Northern Uganda once land is availed.

Gen Katumba Wamala said the donated farm equipment would be used at ‘Ntungamo’ detachment in Mubende District where the soldiers are involved in large scale production of maize.

He said the UPDF is working with the Ministry of Agriculture to provide seeds for the Country.

“This is going to be a seed multiplication Center. This is our first production which is about 420 acres. He appreciated the continued support from the Government of the People’s Republic of China saying they have been a key contributor in the professionalization drive in the UPDF through provision of equipment and training among others.

Ambassador Zhao shows UPDF officers an assotment of items donated to them

The Chieftaincy of Mubende Rehabilitation Center is a reception and rehabilitation center for UPDF soldiers who get disabled during service.

This UPDF unit that was initially called Mubende Causality Unit, counsels, gives specialized care and imparts life skills to the disabled soldiers to cope with their new disability status.

After training, the soldiers are currently involved in several income generating projects within the units like farming, carpentry, sewing, drama, trade, among others.